Thankful for Turkey

Its hard to believe that the Holidays have arrived. It seems like only yesterday I was on the plane heading across the ocean. To celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday the Simmons group all met at my co-worker, Connie's house for Sunday supper. It was a special treat the Lynde Johnson, our coordinator was able to join us for the day. I arrived a bit earlier than some of the other to help with the preparations. As soon as I entered the house I was filled with excitement to hear Christmas carols playing in the background with the smells of cinnamon and turkey lingering in the air. Mandy, aka Martha Stewart was busy slaving away with the gravy and potatoes. We had nice conversation in the kitchen, even though it was a tight squeeze for more than four people to fit comfortably. There were paper turkeys and candles strewn throughout the apt. It was very nice. Once everyone else arrived the food quickly filled up the table. The girls from El Escorial brought homemade pies and pureed squash from a special recipe, which was delicious. Then there were potatoes, a yummy zucchini casserole that Mandy made, stuffed mushrooms, yes which I did try out of courtesy. There was plenty of wine and sangria which we drank plenty of. It was nice to be with people to share the day with. Of course we all were missing our family and friends but are fortunate to have spent the day with one another is a social fashion. We danced our butts off to the beat of Sir Michael Jackson's Thriller and some Hip hop. Yeah I know its not traditional holiday music but after a few glasses of Rioja or awesome sangria, no one noticed the difference.
Following the party I headed out to meet "the group" for our weekly movie night to see the film, Enchanted. Now because of my failure last week at choosing a movie, I chose Michael Clayton, which I am still hearing complaints from. The movie as I predicted was silly but we enjoyed it. Earlier in the weekend we all went to Carlos's house for Saturday lunch. Well quickly lunch turned into dinner with a game of Gestos (Gestures). I was so proud of myself that there were only two or three cards that I had no idea about any of the clues. At first I began to shout answers out in English but then got the hang of shouting our Spanish words. Cant wait for the next round another day.
I had a great weekend and holiday. I only wish I could have spent with family and friends from the states, but was able to spend it with new friends. Give me a ring when you can or jot me an email with all your news.
Miss you and talk to you soon